The United States national team received some very good news on Monday when their medical staff determined that goalkeeper Tim Howard is showing substantial improvement from his rib injury and should start against Slovenia on Friday.

"After a physical examination this morning, the medical staff has determined there is no need to conduct additional testing on Tim Howard," US Soccer said in an official statement. "He continues to make substantial improvement and is expected to be available for the match against Slovenia."

In the Americans' opening game of the World Cup, Howard was injured in the first half when England's Emile Heskey slid into the New Jersey native while attempting to score on a loose ball in the penalty area.

The Everton man cleared the ball but still required several minutes of medical attention before returning to action.

Howard was awarded the Man Of The Match for his stellar play in the 1-1 draw.

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